By Mohammad M. Ali – Maiduguri

A devastating flood has ravaged parts of Borno State, displacing residents and destroying their homes while also displacing animals from the museum. 

The flood, which surged into the early hours of Tuesday, September 9, inundated several communities in Maiduguri and Jere Local Government Areas.

Areas such as Fori, Galtimari, Gwange, Bulabulin, and communities near the Custom area were particularly hard hit.

The flood, which overflowed the Fori bridge, swept through homes with immense force, leaving many residents scrambling to safety.

Mohammed Adamu, one resident of Fori, recounted the harrowing experience, “We were told to evacuate around 12:30 am Monday, but before we could gather our belongings, the water was already waist-deep.”

The flood claimed numerous houses, shops, and other properties, leaving many residents with nothing. The situation was further compounded by the forced evacuation of patients from Nakowa Hospital along Lagos Street, jeopardizing their health and well-being.

The Lagos Street Bridge, one of the city’s largest, was submerged by the floodwaters, cutting off access to several communities. Residents were forced to abandon their homes and seek refuge in higher ground.

“At around 2 Am, we were busy helping our friend. Floodwaters had already reached their house. The water was around our waists, and we were busy evacuating their luggage. The next call I received was that my house in Lagos Street was also submerged with water. I rushed back, but there was nothing we could do. I am now in Amada Hotel, but my sisters are trapped in Mari. There is no way they can move,” Usman Muhammad said, while calling on authorities to do something.

“I think the least the government should do by now is start evacuating people. People are trapped in their various areas including in Hospital. Patients are already being evacuated in Nakowa Private Hospital Closed to us,” he added.

Deadly animals on the loose – Official

Other areas affected by the flood include the palace of the Shehu of Borno, the University of Maiduguri, and the Borno State Museum Park, forcing out animals.

The general manager of the Borno State Museum Park,  Ali Abatcha Don Best in a statement said, said: “In this devastating period of flood disaster, the General Manager wishes to also announce that some deadly animals have been washed away into our communities, animals like crocodiles and snakes. He called on the attention of the general public to be aware and take all the necessary precautions measures to avoid these animals.

“With regret, a sense of concern, and responsibility, the General Manager wishes to ensure safety and protection for the remaining living things within his jurisdiction.”